Kashi Vibhuti Bhasma

Vibhuti also called Bhasma (holy ash) is a word that has many meanings in Hinduism. Generally, it is used to denote the sacred ash which is made from burnt dry wood. Hindu devotees traditionally apply Vibhuti in the form of three horizontal lines on the forehead and other parts of the body to honor Shiva. There are many aspects to the use of Vibhuti or holy ash. First, it is a good medium to transfer or transmit energy, and has the ability to help direct and control the energy body. Apart from this, applying it on the body also has symbolic significance. It is a constant reminder of the mortal nature of life - it is as if you are always wearing impermanence on your body. Vibhuti is usually worn on the forehead, arms or neck. It is common practice to apply a tilak of Vibhuti on the forehead and a tilak of red vermilion. Vibhuti is a representation of Shiva while red vermilion signifies Shakti. It is a symbolic representation that Shiva and Shakti are the only truths in the universe and that everything comes into existence only through the union of Shiva and Shakti.